Fontinalis antipyretica Greater Water-moss

A large, pleurocarpous aquatic moss which is found in streams, rivers, ponds, canals and ditches. It tends to avoid acidic waters and prefers mesotrophic conditions. It is not uncommon in shallow seasonal pools that dry out and it is tolerant of desiccation. The dark-green leaves, which are about 0.5cm long, are folded to form a distictive keel, a feature that distinguishes it from Fontinalis squamosa. It is common throughout Britain and a very common aquatic moss in Wales. It is scattered throughout West Galmorgan and is frequent in the main river and stream systems. Sporophyte capsules are occasional but hidden among the leaves and often difficult to find.